1

Progressive Rail Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Laborer

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is ... PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES The laborer position is an entry level position that should progress to ...

IA

$89K/yr

... of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to motive power ... progress and evaluates outcomes. * Oral Communication - Makes clear and convincing oral ...

IA

$89K/yr

... of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to motive power ... progress and evaluates outcomes. * Oral Communication - Makes clear and convincing oral ...

Laborer

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is ... PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES The laborer position is an entry level position that should progress to ...

Laborer

Keokuk, IA · On-site

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is ... PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES  The laborer position is an entry level position that should progress ...

Laborer

Keokuk, IA

$14.25 - $17.50/hr

Amsted Rail-Griffin Wheel, the leading manufacturer of railroad wheels in North America, is ... PRINCIPLE ACCOUNTABILITIES  The laborer position is an entry level position that should progress ...

$14 - $18.50/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail ... A Company Invested in Your Growth (Progress): Through continuous improvement of our systems ...

$14 - $18.50/hr

RailPros is the premier provider of engineering and diversified safety services to America's rail ... A Company Invested in Your Growth (Progress): Through continuous improvement of our systems ...

IA

$89K/yr

... of rail safety programs to ensure maximum safety in railroad operations relevant to motive power ... progress and evaluates outcomes. * Oral Communication - Makes clear and convincing oral ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Progressive Rail information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a railroad operations professional at Progressive Rail, and why are they important?

To thrive as a railroad operations professional at Progressive Rail, you need a solid understanding of rail transport procedures, safety regulations, and equipment operation, often supported by a high school diploma or relevant technical training. Familiarity with train control systems, dispatch software, and safety compliance certifications such as FRA regulations is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and clear communication are essential soft skills for coordinating schedules and ensuring safe, efficient operations. These competencies are critical to maintaining operational safety, minimizing delays, and ensuring regulatory compliance in a demanding transportation environment.

What is the highest paying railroad job?

The highest paying railroad jobs are typically management positions such as railroad executives, operations managers, or safety directors, which can earn six-figure salaries. Skilled technical roles like locomotive engineers and signal maintainers also earn high wages, especially with experience and certifications. These roles often require specialized training, certifications, and experience in the industry.

How much does Progressive Rail pay?

The pay for positions at Progressive Rail varies depending on the role, experience, and location. Entry-level positions such as track laborers or maintenance workers typically start around minimum wage, while more skilled roles like engineers or conductors can earn higher salaries, often ranging from $50,000 to $80,000 annually. Compensation may also include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans.

What is Progressive Rail?

Progressive Rail is a short line railroad company that operates freight rail services in several regions across the United States. They specialize in providing flexible, customer-focused rail transportation solutions, often connecting local industries to the larger national rail network. Progressive Rail is known for its personalized service and ability to tailor logistics solutions for businesses of all sizes, helping to move goods efficiently and cost-effectively. The company also offers warehousing, transloading, and other logistics services to support their customers’ supply chains.

What is the difference between Progressive Rail vs Signal Maintainer?

AspectProgressive RailSignal Maintainer
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma, technical trainingHigh school diploma, technical training, certifications in signal systems
Work EnvironmentRail yards, tracks, maintenance facilitiesRail yards, trackside, electrical rooms
Employer & Industry UsageRailroad companies, freight and passenger railRailroad companies, transit agencies
Common Search & ComparisonProgressive Rail vs Signal Maintainer

Progressive Rail and Signal Maintainer roles both operate within the railroad industry, often sharing similar credentials and work environments. However, Signal Maintainers specifically focus on installing, maintaining, and repairing signal systems essential for train safety and operations. Progressive Rail roles may encompass broader maintenance tasks, including track and equipment upkeep. Understanding these distinctions helps job seekers identify the right career path within the rail industry.

Is it hard to get hired on the railroad?

Getting hired as a railroad worker can be competitive and often requires meeting physical requirements, passing background checks, and sometimes obtaining certifications such as safety training or operating licenses. Experience with machinery, good communication skills, and a willingness to work irregular hours can improve chances of employment in the industry.

Is Progress Rail a good company to work for?

Progress Rail is a well-established company in the rail industry, offering roles such as manufacturing, maintenance, and engineering. Employees generally cite competitive pay, benefits, and a focus on safety, though experiences can vary by location and position.

What are some typical challenges faced by employees working at Progressive Rail, and how can they be managed effectively?

Employees at Progressive Rail often encounter challenges such as adapting to variable work schedules, working outdoors in different weather conditions, and ensuring strict adherence to safety protocols. Effective communication and teamwork are essential to manage these challenges, as rail operations require close coordination between crew members and other departments. Ongoing training and a strong safety culture help employees stay prepared and confident in handling unexpected situations. Embracing flexibility and maintaining a proactive approach to problem-solving can make day-to-day responsibilities more manageable and rewarding.
What are popular job titles related to Progressive Rail jobs in Iowa? For Progressive Rail jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Progressive Rail jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Progressive Rail jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Progressive Rail jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Progressive Rail job openings:
Infographic showing various Progressive Rail job openings in Iowa as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, and 5% Contract. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution.
Mechanic Welder

$24 - $25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Progress Rail rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 68 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

318th of 485 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Purpose
This position is responsible for operating various hand-welding and flame-cutting equipment to weld, fabricate or join work pieces together. Work involves safe use of various hand and power tools common to the welding trade along with various welding methods such as MIG or Stick
Company Description
Progress Rail stands at the intersection of legacy and innovation-driving the future of rail with a pioneering spirit. Since its founding in 1983, the company has grown to become one of the world's largest and most trusted providers of railroad products, services, and technologies. Today, Progress Rail delivers a comprehensive portfolio of cost-effective solutions to railway customers around the globe. From the rails themselves to the EMD® locomotives that ride them, the company's products are in operation across more than 100 countries-powering progress and connecting communities. In 2006, Progress Rail joined Caterpillar Inc., further strengthening its ability to lead the rail industry with cutting-edge technology, unmatched expertise, and a commitment to excellence. At Progress Rail, the team is not just building the future of rail-they are making history every day.
Education / Training
• 3-6 years welding experience;
• High School Diploma or GED;
• Vocational / technical training and certification;
Key Job Elements
• Starting wage $24-25/hour dependent on skills and experience;
• Position will work M-Th, 10 hour day shifts. Mandatory overtime as needed;
• Pass internal welding certification in conjunction with requirements under ISO, AAR, and other regulatory agencies;
• Retrieve materials assembled and weld into a finished product;
• Set up components for welding according to specifications (e.g. cut material with powered saws to match measurements);
• Operate angle grinders to prepare the parts that must be welded;
• Interpret welding blueprints, assembly instructions, drawings, JSA's, and bills of material;
• Maintaining welding proficiency as required by Progress Rail QSP 4.9 as well as any applicable local and international standards;
• Candidate must be able to accurately use measuring devices such as tape measures, scales, and calipers;
• Must be able to measure and record the required inspection information;
• Candidate must be able to use various hand tools as well as pneumatic and electric powered grinders and impact wrenches, as well as overhead cranes to transport components into and out of the work area;
Advanced duties and responsibilities
• Mastery of various welds such as pipe weld, GMAW, SMAW, etc. in all positions;
• Certification to a recognized welding standard such as AWS D1.1;
• Perform single and multi-pass welds in all positions;
• Ability to perform preventative and basic maintenance of weld machines and equipment; change out wire and gas bottles as needed;
• Weld components using manual or semi-automatic welding equipment in various positions (vertical, horizontal or overhead);
• Ability to train others;
• Forklift certified;
• Any other duties assigned
Qualifications and Experience
• Prior welding or grinder experience preferred;
• Ability to multitask and work with minimal supervision;
• Must be able to read and write legibly;
• Strong attention to detail with ability to inspect work using measuring devices;
• Must be quality oriented and a team player;
• Must have complete understanding of safe work practices;
• Specific site qualifications and progression may apply, consult with local team;
• Skill Level I - < 1-year experience, or no previous experience as a welder;
• Skill Level II - 1-2 year of experience as a welder;
• Skill Level III - 2-3 years of experience as a welder, certification in GMAW and FCAW preferred. Technical certifications can substitute for experience;
• Skill Level IV - 4-5 years of experience as a certified welder. Additional SMAW welding certifications preferred;
• Skill Level V - 5+ years of experience as a certified welder with all previous certifications
Essential and Physical Activities Functions
• Strength - Position requires lifting up to 50 lbs. Requires stamina and strength to work in tight and
confined spaces;
• Motion - Position requires the ability to perform physical activities that require considerable use of arms
and legs and moving the whole body, such as climbing, reaching, lifting, balancing, walking, stooping, and
kneeling. Position requires remaining in a stationary position for prolonged periods. Position requires
working from heights exceeding 6 ft. off the ground with proper PPE and fall protection;
• Vision/Hearing Requirements - Position is exposed to UV and reflected radiation from a welding arc or
torch. Position is exposed to high levels of noise and vibration from using tools. The use of proper PPE is
required. The position requires the ability to read written instruction and understand both verbal and
written instructions;
• Work Environment - Position can be located inside or outside dependent on situation. When inside the
employees are subject to temperature extremes in non-temperature-controlled environments. When
outside employees are subject to all weather elements;
• Emotional Demands - Employee is expected to work and cooperate as part of a team in order to meet
production requirements;
• Safety - Position is safety sensitive as it requires working in and around live tracks and operation and
repair of heavy equipment. Position requires strict adherence to safety policies (i.e. blue flag) and use of
all required PPE.
Benefits
Compensation and benefits offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, job level, market location, job-related knowledge, skills, individual performance, and experience. Please note that salary is only one component of total compensation at Progress Rail.**
  • Competitive Salary
  • 401(k) plan with up to 6% company match (no waiting period with immediate vesting)
  • Medical/Dental/Vision/Life/Disability Insurance
  • Supplemental Accident, Critical Care, and Hospital Insurance available along with an HDHP and HSA with seed money
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Paid Vacation
  • Paid Holidays
  • Paid Time-Off (PTO)
  • Employee Assistance Plan
  • Education Assistance Program
  • Employee Recognition Programs
  • Site specific Production and Incentive Plans
  • Site specific Step and Skill Level Wage Adjustment Plans
  • Site Specific Relocation and Sign-on Bonus Programs

*Benefits eligibility varies by job position, full-time/part-time and regular/temporary status. The provisions of the plan documents control such benefits.
**Subject to position, eligibility, and plan guidelines.

What Progress Rail employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


Progress Rail logo

About Progress Rail

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Our team works hard to create lifelong customer relationships, supplying comprehensive rolling stock and infrastructure solutions for the global rail industry and setting the standard for excellence. We care about fostering the sustainable movement of goods and people for generations to come, and we know our customers care, too. Our strategic footprint ensures responsive, quality customer support all day, every day. We are one of the largest integrated diversified providers of rolling stock and infrastructure solutions and technologies for the global rail industry. The company provides advanced EMD® locomotives, engines, and technologies, railcars, trackwork, fasteners, signaling, rail welding and Kershaw® Maintenance-of-Way equipment, along with dedicated locomotive and freight car repair services, aftermarket parts support and recycling operations. Progress Rail’s deep industry expertise ensures a commitment to quality through innovative solutions.

Industry

Consumer goods and commercial equipment rental services

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Albertville, AL, US

Year founded

1983